(“Hapenini”) Bechinath Olam [ethics].

Auction 85 | Thursday, November 07th, 2019 at 1:00pm
Fine Judaica: Printed Books, Manuscripts, Graphic & Ceremonial Art

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Lot 48
BEDERSI, JEDAIAH

(“Hapenini”) Bechinath Olam [ethics].

ff. (44). Opening few leaves remargined, light stains, repaired worming. Modern calf. 12mo Vinograd, Mantua 30; Mehlman 969.

Mantua: Jacob Kohen 1556

Est: $500 - $700
PRICE REALIZED $600
A profound poetic composition on the futility and vanity of the world and the inestimably greater benefits of intellectual and religious pursuits. The author finds consolation in Maimonides’ world of ideas, concluding that the greatest achievement for Man is to “perfect one’s understanding and immerse oneself in the grandeur of the idea of God. No power in the world can can break Man’s will when he strives toward this exalted goal.” For a critical analysis of Jedaiah Hapenini’s poetic style, see I. Zinberg,, A History of Jewish Literature (1975) Vol. III, pp. 96-8.